The Kerala Department of General Education has published the timetable for the 2026 Plus One improvement and supplementary examinations. These exams, intended for first-year higher secondary students seeking to improve their marks, will commence on October 12, 2026. The official schedule is available on the state’s HSE portal.
Understanding the Plus One Improvement Exams in Kerala
In Kerala, students who wish to enhance their scores in the first year of higher secondary education (Plus One) can apply for improvement exams. These exams provide an opportunity to retake subjects in which students previously underperformed or want to achieve better grades. The improvement exams are distinct from regular board exams and are typically held later in the year.
The Department of General Education oversees the administration of these exams, ensuring students meet application deadlines and fee payments. The exams cover a wide range of subjects across science, commerce, and arts streams.
Important Dates and Exam Details for 2026
- Application deadline for regular, lateral entry, re-admission, compartment, and special category candidates: September 10, 2026.
- Fee payment deadline at the treasury by school principals: September 11, 2026.
- Late application with a fine of Rs 600 allowed until September 15, 2026.
- Fee payment with fine deadline: September 16, 2026.
- Online registration and data upload by schools: September 16, 2026.
The examination will begin on October 12, 2026, with subjects divided between forenoon (FN) and afternoon (AN) sessions. For instance, Physics, Sociology, and Anthropology will be held in the morning session on the first day, while Geography, Music, and Accountancy will take place in the afternoon.
Exam timings vary by subject type. Subjects without practicals run from 9:30 am to 12:15 pm (FN) and 2 pm to 4:45 pm (AN), including a 15-minute cool-off period. Practical exams, except for Biology and Music, are scheduled from 9:30 am to 11:45 am (FN) and 2 pm to 4:15 pm (AN). Biology has a longer duration with a 25-minute cool-off time, and Music exams last from 2 pm to 3:45 pm.
Fees and Subject Schedule Highlights
The fee structure varies depending on the candidate category and exam type:
- Regular, lateral entry, and re-admission candidates pay Rs 175 per paper plus Rs 40 for the certificate.
- Compartment candidates pay Rs 225 per paper for supplementary exams and the second-year higher secondary exam scheduled for March 2027, with Rs 80 for two certificates.
The timetable covers a broad spectrum of subjects, including core science subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology; commerce subjects such as Accountancy and Business Studies; and arts subjects like Sociology, History, and Languages.
Art subjects have a separate schedule, with exams starting on October 12 for main subjects and continuing through October 17 for literature and aesthetic subjects.
How This Schedule Affects Students and Schools
The release of the improvement exam schedule allows students to plan their preparation and application process well in advance. Meeting the application and fee deadlines is crucial to avoid fines and ensure eligibility. Schools play a vital role in facilitating the registration and fee remittance process, acting as intermediaries between students and the Department of General Education.
For students aiming to improve their academic records, these exams offer a second chance to enhance their prospects for higher education and career opportunities. The detailed timetable and clear fee structure help reduce confusion and streamline the examination process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does the Kerala Plus One improvement exam start in 2026?
A: The exams begin on October 12, 2026, with various subjects scheduled across morning and afternoon sessions.
Q: What is the last date to apply for the improvement exam?
A: The final date to submit applications without a fine is September 10, 2026. Applications can be submitted with a Rs 600 fine until September 15, 2026.
Q: How much is the exam fee for regular candidates?
A: Regular, lateral entry, and re-admission candidates must pay Rs 175 per paper, plus Rs 40 for the certificate fee.
